Reviews (page 5 of 7)
A very nice album. Says a lot about Paul McCartney’s talent. Here he is transitioning from the Beatles, not in the best state of mind, and he pulls together this credible piece of work. While not highly acclaimed it nonetheless overshadows many of the works on the 1001 list.
Little too sleepy Paul , still good
Sounds nice but a little boring. Great length. Also he has a deeper voice than I was expecting.
Least favorite Beatle
I get the whole McCartney trilogy thing about experimental music from Paul's creative mind. But... I don't know! This album always gave me the impression that it was poorly made, or made in a haphazard and careless way. I even heard someone say that this album would be the first LO-FI album in history. I think that's an exaggeration. But I get the point. Anyway, this is the album that introduced the world to the anthology "Maybe I'm Amazed", so it gets credit for that. I'm giving it 3 stars today.
Una de las cosas que más me están gustando de este challenge es que le estoy prestando atención a los discos en solitario de los Beatles. Hoy me ha tocado el primero de todos ellos, lanzado incluso antes del "Let It Be". Un álbum romántico, íntimo, grabado por McCartney en un estilo lo-fi en su propia habitación (algunos dicen que inventó el indie rock, pero es bastante debatible). Esperaba un álbum aburrido y difícil de valorar, pero me ha gustado mucho. Es de muy fácil escucha y su producción simple encaja muy bien con la cercanía que transmite. Curiosamente, el tema más conocido, "Maybe I'm Amazed", ha sido de los que menos me ha gustado. Pero la primera mitad del álbum es estupenda. Me quedo con "Junk", una oda a las baratijas de mercadillo. Lo volveré a escuchar seguro.
Fairly forgettable
It didn’t blow me away, but it’s not bad music. So far I prefer The Beatles.
This one is a bit of a mish-mash of different styles. I guess Paul was just working out what he wanted to do without the rest of the band. Overall very inconsistent. It includes the masterpiece “Maybe I’m Amazed”, then some short little ditties, a bluesy instrumental number, etc. Feels more like an insight into him just trying things out at home than an actual album.
This is #day171 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and... this turned out to be better than I expected, though still not something I'd put on again soon. A fine Sunday afternoon listen. It was interesting to learn that Paul McCartney did lo-fi, especially considering it was 1970. One particular highlight for me was "Momma Miss America"—maybe one or two others. I'm giving this album a 3 out of 5. Looking forward to #day172.
I feel like a lot of the themes on this list are transitional albums and I guess that makes sense. Here is a moment in time when all roads led to the Beatles breakup. As far as this album. It's ok, nothing special. Fave: Maybe I'm Amazed is ok I guess.
Hmmm, if you take the name of this project literally, there's surely no good reason why you'd need to listen to this before you die. If you interpret the project as "A Crash Course in the Boomer Canon", though, I guess its inclusion makes sense! 🙄 This was an ok listen - not dreadful, but not great either. Fave tracks - uh, "Every Night" had me look up the track name, I think? And "Kreen-Akore" had monkey noises!
Super raw and low-key. Gentle but uneven. Feels like someone just messing around at home and catching some cool moments, like it was made just for fun, not for a big audience. It’s not about being perfect, just doing the thing.
Not bad
Should've just released "Maybe I'm Amazed" and left it at that
Its fine
Definitely sounded like potential Beatles song. Very intimate though, which was pretty cool.
I want to praise it because it’s it’s fucking Paul McCartney but it’s not too amazing. Instead of maybe I’m amazed that feels undeniably like a classic . But yeah I think it’s nice he released an album like this, something distant from the ways of the Beatles. Would say 3/5 for enjoyment though sorry paul
Beatle esque Good lyrics
Cool.
Album was alright. Definitely weaker than some of his other solo work. “Maybe I’m Amazed” is a good song. 3/5 Might listen again
Okay
By Beatles standards? Not very remarkable. By anyone else's standards, pretty decent, but a few duds
good one. It has junk and Maybe I'm amazed!
Good not great
I can see why the critics were divided on this one. It is very uneven and lo-fi, but I guess that is the point. Definitely influential on later lo-fi artists, but I can't help but wonder if this would be as lauded if it was anyone other than McCartney. Some really solid songs on here, but a lot of them sound unfinished. I let the album play until I was a few tracks into the demo/outtakes disc of the deluxe version and barely noticed.
This is definitely not what I'd expect for the first Paul McCartney album. Very much incomplete, sketchy, jammy and whimsical, kinda like a compilation of all the stuff that had been sitting around in his notebook since the Beatles era but was never released. Still, there are some nice tracks on there, like Man We Was Lonely and Maybe I'm Amaze, and overall the album's not that hard of a listen. 2.75/5 rounded up
Not my fave
This is ok. Some nice low-fi ditties/jams that probably wouldn't receive much attention (good or bad) if a lesser name released them. ‘Ram’ on the other hand, now THAT's an album you should hear before you die. 2.5
My least favourite Beatle and this does not really change my view. I quite like the demo/bagginess and that many tracks sound like discarded Beatles out takes.
Singalong Junk is a pleasant song. Maybe I'm Amazed is a good song too; this is a popular one I recognize and didn't know was McCartney. Pretty decent album, very Beatles-like and I was expected to be less than neutral about it.
Songs i knew: 2 Songs i liked: 2 Remember some of these tracks from Beatles Anthologys before they were well formed so great to hear them remastered. Sounds decent considering he recorded this in his house. Low 3.
Gonna do a track by track for this one, as finding something new and interesting to write about albums day after day is *hard* The Lovely Linda: Bit simpy. She’s never gonna shag you mate. Nice enough tune though. That Would Be Something: Decent little blues ditty. Like the intimate production on this album, quite different to The Beatles/George Martin sound you associate with McCartney. Even at only 2 minutes and change, this drags on a bit though. Valentine Day: Noodley instrumental track. It’s not bad, but so far this album feels like a load of b sides and offcuts. Fades out just as it seems like it’s getting going. Like my shagging. Every Night: This feels like the most Beatles-y track so far. Never a bad thing. Like the melody and there are some interesting chord changes in this. Hot as Sun/Glasses: Paul clearly wrote this on a beach holiday. Probably sat on the balcony with a can and a rollie while the missus gets ready. Another instrumental, that I think would be well serviced by having lyrics and a vocal melody. Bit of a shame. Goes a bit dissonant at the end, like he’s killed his missus after she took too long getting ready or something. We’ve all been there Paul. Junk: Lovely this. Great melody and vocals. Bit of Xylophone and contrasting background vocals at the end add a nice touch. Loved this. Could easily slot into any Beatles album and not feel out of place. Man We Was Lonely: Again, very Beatles-y. Could be off the White album. Actually sounds like John Lennon harmonising on this. Some very unnecessary electric slide guitar towards the end. Gets a bit repetitive but not a bad tune. Oo You: Proper bit of blues. Decent riffage, sounds a bit like the White Stripes. Good stuff. Momma Miss America: Another instrumental. It’s alright but a few too many of these on this album. Like that the piano sounds a bit moody and the bass line’s are cool. Like it. Teddy Boy: Bit meh, but it’s short. It’s not terrible, just a bit slight. Ted sounds like a melt. Sez. Singalong Junk: Beautiful. One of the few songs off this I recognise (though I’ve no idea where from). Yet another instrumental though. They’re all pretty good, but seems a a bit of a waste when you’re one of the greatest vocal melodicists (not sure that’s a word) of all time. Maybe I’m Amazed: Tune. Classic McCartney, and one of the few tracks where he really lets rip on this album. Like that they just go a bit wild with the electric guitar. Kreen-Akrore: Big chords, then mad monkey sounds. He was definitely breaking the grass ceiling when making this one. Starts going a bit Rat Salad with the drum solo, but in a much more boring way. Then the contrasting vocal melodies with the electric guitar sound great. This song changes every 30 seconds, but in a completely disjointed way. Now he’s breathing down my ear. Kind of this album in a microcosm, just a load of stuff thrown at the wall to see what would stick. Now a classic guitar Beatles guitar solo to finish. Overall, I enjoyed this but it’s very disjointed and felt like a b-side compilation. Like he’s just using up all the half baked ideas he had left over from The Beatles.
It's not ram, it's not as good as any of the Beatles album. It's not even the best solo Beatles album (All Things Must Pass). But it is still pretty good. Mid 3.
Would be better with Ringo.
There are so many better McCartney solo albums than this.
It's a little impressive that "The Lovely Linda" and "Maybe I'm Amazed" co-exist on the same album. I liked this overall, and I was intrigued to read that the original response included a lot of rage about it being "unfinished" - first of all, not like I'm going to notice, and second of all, not like I don't already listen to a bunch of crappy DIY music that's sometimes crappy sounding *on purpose*
It’s just okay. Nothing memorable. Listened twice and forgot it was on half way through both times.
Kevyttä rokkia. Hyviä kappaleita. Parempaa kuin Beatles. Kreen-Akrore mielenkiintoinen lopetus. Parhaat: Momma Miss America, Junk, Teddy Boy, Oo You
Um bom álbum para se ouvir. Nem parece Beatles, e parece muito um álbum onde o artista só colocou as músicas que queria. Destaque para o final do álbum: Momma Miss America, Singalong Junk, Maybe I'm Amazed e Kreen-Akrore.
Nothing crazy, but I like it more than most Beatles albums
Look. It's a shame when the album isn't as interesting as it's context. Wish I could love it, as I am a Paul fan, but the project is half-baked, bar one or two tracks. When comparing to John Lennon/Yoko Ono Band and All Things Must Pass, this is wildly below par. There is a lack of maturity or seriousness in this, and I'm sure when the other Beatles heard it, they would've been pissed.
It's alright. No standout tracks and no dross either.
Credit to "Maybe I'm Amazed" but otherwise I agree with the criticisms saying this feels rough and half-unfinished.
lots of nice melodies on songs that didn't feel particularly substantial, but maybe that's just a first listen thing. maybe i'm amazed stood out
Sounds like he got drunk and recorded this in one afternoon. Probably didn't even remember making it the next day. Not gonna lie, I fuck with it. Minus 30 points for not being the one with "Temporary Secretary" - Paul's greatest musical achievement.
I just don't get all the fuss about Sir McCartney
Dated sounding short album 2 not back tracks and the rest totally forgettable
Pretty much all of the good and the bad is right here for McCartney. At times, this album is entirely too twee and sentimental. But it’s also wildly creative virtuosic. There are a lot of half baked ideas, but a half baked idea for McCartney at this time is still inventive. The man could just sneeze out a great hook without thinking about it. Still, this barely registers as an album for me.
McCartney honestly was not really what i was expecting it to be. After listening to 3 Beatles albums so far, i was expecting Paul's solo effort to sound a lot like his work with them but my expectations were very subverted. Not only was the music a lot more experimental feeling in nature, but his voice didn't sound like what it sounded like in The Beatles and i can give this album credit for being something i didn't expect. While the first part of the album was pretty forgettable, It was when Oo You hit when i really started to find things to like about this album. This album isn't perfect but it is still one i enjoyed a decent amount. Best Song: Momma Miss America Worst Song: The Lovely Linda
Fun little pop rock album. 3.5/5
This is interesting- it helps to separate the Lennon from the McCartney in the last few albums of ramblings (Abbey, White and Let it Be). Pleasant songs- like he sat down and jammed in his loft. Nothing really special and Wings did it better.....
Definitely sounds like a work in progress. Being a big fan of The Beatles, I nevertheless enjoyed this album which also included some of The Beatles' archived tunes.
Ei huono! Tykkään tästä lo-fi -tyylistä! 3/5
McCartney halunnut varmaan pelkistyksellään erottua Beatlesistä, mutta menee musta vähän liian riisutun puolelle. 3/5
Really interesting to hear this album with its context. I agree with the contemporary reviews that said many songs sounded unfinished, but still, there's something there. The album has a distinctly Paul McCartney charm to it, and as a recording project, experimenting with instrumentation and being the first record on which Paul played everything, it is fascinating.
Ehhhhh... okay.
Three stars because Paul.
Cocky fucker thought he could just toss off some half-baked song sketches and it would still be great because he was such a genius. Got too big for your britches there Macca! Maybe those other three blokes were bringing something to the table, huh? These are perfectly fine demos, and well they should be because they were made by one of the greatest songwriters and performers of all time, but they are still just demos. If he had taken these into the studio with some other talented people then they could have worked on them and maybe gotten two or three album-worthy songs out of them. But instead he just released them. How contemptuous of his audience and what a waste of his talent. Lazy and hubristic, Mr. McCartney. Lazy and hubristic.
Very pleasant listening. Not sure that any of these songs besides Maybe I'm Amazed are super great but I had fun
I enjoyed this one more then his wings debut. This one felt more personal and honest and real
Vuodessa 70 on kyllä taikaa, täähän on hyvä levy! Eikä kuulosta McCartneylta siinä mielessä, että imelyyttä ei ole kuin häivähdys. Maybe I’m amazed kuulosti melkein paikoin Lennonilta. Erittäin positiivinen yllätys, kun oltiinkin näin rock. Tosin viimeistä biisiä en tajua yhtään, se kuulostaa vain laitteiden testailulta studiossa. Plussaa myös kannesta, haluisin tän printtinä. En kuitenkaan uskalla antaa kolmosta, tuntuu ettei tää kestä toista kuuntelua.
It felt experimental and unfinished, which seemed very intentional.
I can practically feel Paul’s excitement to finally be free of the Beatles and be able to have complete musical control of a project in the songwriting structure of these tracks. It doesn’t always click for me, but still an excellently crafted album
A few solid tunes and a few weak ones. As a whole -much less than most would expect from McCartneys solo debut. But “Maybe I’m Amazed” is a def classic.
Well done on the solo recording—this feels like a sketchbook, loose and unguarded. It seems like he pushed it out a little prematurely, maybe even vindictively in the wake of the breakup; I’d probably be more into it if I were closer to the Beatles drama it’s quietly reacting to.
Pretty pleasant, Paul. I kinda liked most of the instrumental songs, as well as "Maybe I'm Amazed".
It's fine other solo stuff is better
Why has Paul McCartney always sung like a 70-year-old man
rated as respect 3 star... Äänimaisema muuttuu kokonaan wild shit.. wth!! Perud soitattelua..
3.3 1x SFO->LAX in airport
As a McCartney glazer myself, this was a nice relisten. Paul's amateurish qualities really help the album. Although some of the songs are lackluster in quality overall, you end up with a more personal and informal piece of work, which I love. Plus, when you hear the songs that do hit, it makes up for some of the mid that is on here. Top 3 Fav: Junk, Every Night, and Maybe I'm Amazed Top 3 Worst: no bad songs but their was some mid 3.50/5
El primer disco en solitario de Paul McCartney debió ser curioso escucharlo por primera vez con los Beatles tan próximos y sin saber que nunca más se reunirían. Me han gustado «Every Night» y «Maybe I'm Amazed».
Not my sort of music. But I managed to listen to the whole thing without hating it.
A wholesome and quirky collection of songs that showcases McCartney’s innate knack for writing a melody while also distancing itself a bit from the grandeur of the final Beatles albums. It’s not my favourite record of his and he has far more streamlined and impressive stuff later on, but as a kind of back to basics/soft launch of a solo career, it does exactly what it needed to do at the time
Post beatles Mccartney seems to be for the fanboys. Its decent generic pop music of the time, but doesnt really stand out.
Maybe, I'm amazed.
It was good, not great. There are a few bangers on there, but it's all alright
Ik vind dit eigenlijk best relaxed. Ome Paul die lekker wat liedjes zingt. Volgens mij heeft 'ie er wel plezier in, dus dat luistert wel lekker weg. Er is binnen een bepaald spectrum nog best wel wat variatie te vinden op dit album, waardoor het niet verveeld. Ik weet niet of ik dit legendarisch genoeg vind voor deze lijst, maar dit kan ik gerust een keer aanzetten. Als ik het in één woord zou moeten samenvatten zou ik het 'prettig' noemen, of 'oerdegelijk'. Ook hier was de 3,5 van pas gekomen. Ik kap 'm af op een 3 omdat het wel vergeetbaar is wat hier op de mat wordt gelegd. De laatste track met dat gehijg is me wat te vaag ook.
Enjoyed this far more than I thought I would
Listened to this in my partner’s car and it left no impression. Listened to it again using my speakers just to be sure and I enjoyed it way more. Maybe her car’s speakers are shit or maybe I was in a different mood, but it hit completely differently. Every Night and Maybe I’m Amazed were my favourites. Docking a point for the heavy breathing on Kreene-Akrore; that was just unnecessary and unpleasant.
Maybe I’m Amazed. Banger. Otherwise needs more John, George, and Ringo. Simpsons: Maybe I’m Amazed was used as an end credits!
This was not the iconic McCartney sound I expected. Kind of took me aback. Some good tracks on there of course, “Maybe I’m Amazed”
Paul doesn’t give a shit anymore! This album sounds like he wanted to step away from the intense production and creativity of The Beatles, and just jam out and enjoy fucking around at home. He doesn’t give a shit if the songs are half baked or could be more elegantly arranged. He doesn’t for a shit if there’s a good hook (which there are still some excellent melodies)! He’s just a guy writing songs and having fun! Is this a possible influence on layer bedroom/lo-fi-ish pop…maybe! It’s cool to hear and there are plenty of gems, but plenty of fluff and not much that really stands the rest of time. Fun and charming listen that ultimately isn’t super memorable.
Ironically, my first thought when listening to this was that there was something missing. Many songs sound like demos or outlines that needed to be filled in by other musicians, but after reading that it’s all solo McCartney finding his way through his first post-Beatles project, it became much more compelling. A very interesting listen.
The album was okay. I liked some of the experimental guitar playing and when Paul wasn’t singing. I hate the moaning or grunting shit at the end of the album. So weird that so many album do that stuff. Standouts: Valentine Day, Every Night, and Junk.
Rating: 6/10 This man really put out an album that is clearly unfinished. This "album" is more of a collection of ideas that do not go anywhere. However, these ideas are pretty damn good. Choice cut: Maybe I'm Amazed
Junk и Maybe I'm Amazed топ, остальные песни не очень помню, но наверное, похуже
Maybe I'm Amazed is just an all timer. The rest was good. Lo-fi and groovy.
This album lands somewhere in the middle for me. It definitely has a DIY, stripped-down approach, but overall, the tracks mostly hover around twos and threes out of five, with maybe a couple that come close to a four.
This was pretty good. It may be because I've heard it before, but 'Maybe I'm Amazed' is the clear standout. The whole thing is filled with good songs, but in a way that isn't really cohesive, I don't think. It may work in some contexts, but not in the pop-rock that Sir McCartney has holed himself into. Then again, I have no idea what I'm talking about.
Un album à la qualité bon enfant, on sent une liberté et une individualité, presque un manque de sérieux dans son enthousiasme. Un bon moment, mais pas un coup de cœur pour moi
I love The Beatles and all of their solo stuff mostly but this one seemed like a lot of what would have been filler on a Beatles record except maybe I’m amazed. Still quality though and maybe I’m amazed is a great song.
I’m so sorry, Paul, but this wasn’t my favorite
Super disappointing album and if you think otherwise you're just clouded by the McCartney name. I love Paul as much as the next guy but it's kind of disappointing that this was released considering how half-baked and experimental it was; I mean, there are stretches where Paul's just messing around behind the mic. I certainly respect Paul and think he's a gifted musician, but I think people should not be afraid of being critical of sub-par work. "Maybe I'm Amazed" definitely saved at the end from me labeling this as a 2 star album. 5/10.
I was vibing with it until the last track.
Album was definitely carried by Maybe I’m Amazed. His voice is incredible, but won’t be listening to this full thing again
Not only have I listened to some of Paul McCartney’s solo work before, I remember hearing “Maybe I’m Amazed” which comes from this eponymous album. The McCartney eponymous albums have a reputation for compiling songs where Paul recorded all the instruments. In this case with the first one, aside from a few harmony vocals from his then-wife Linda, Paul hashes it out on his own. I respect the hustle, and it’s quite the achievement for how many songs turned out as well as they did. The aforementioned “Maybe I’m Amazed”, “Junk” and its singalong counterpart, “Teddy Boy” and “Momma Miss America” are all great examples of the songwriting and commitment to the craft that Paul was capable of on his own. That said, it does feel like the second half of the album shines brightest, whereas the first half features some song fragments. Tracks such as “The Lovely Linda”, “Valentine Day” and “Hot Sun/Glasses” contain some great ideas that could have been fleshed out more for another minute or two. I understand Paul was very eager at the time to get his solo work out to the public, at the expense of competing with the release of Let it Be, but who knows what could have been had more time been dedicated to these few tracks. Still, I nevertheless commend the man on getting this album out and giving the public a taste of what Paul was capable of without the other Beatles involved. I can see how it achieved later recognition as one of the first big lo-fi records and how influential it was to indie music. Give it a spin.
Hmm other than maybe I’m amazed which obviously bangs, the other tracks were just pleasant background music for me. Album art is cool though
Pretty good. Weird, but not bad. You can hear The Beatles sound and influence in this album, from the Sargent Pepper era. Fun, but about the time things began to come off the rails.
I can see how this album was vilified if it was the first thing that came out when the Beatles broke up. It doesn't sound as good as later McCartney work, and a lot sounds like unpolished demos or musical ideas. However, you can still hear Macca's musical chops in the variety of styles he threw into this. 3* because the ideas that are in here are great on their own. If every song was as polished as "maybe i'm amazed", this album would be a hard 5/5. Highlights: junk, oo you, maybe im amazed
3.5, a relaxing listen though I don’t think there’s anything too breathtaking.
Cute but not precious. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
New album for me. Typical Paul McCartney songs. Several highlights, but also several parts that were quite tedious to listen to. Perhaps I should have listened to it more often, but this is not in the same league as Ram or Band on the Run.
I liked parts of this but it is overall too inhoherent.
Obviously I love The Beatles and his work there, but so much of this just feels undercooked and undeveloped. There are some gems such as Junk and Maybe I'm Amazed, but a lot of basic, forgettable songs as well.
Half the songs are amazing, the rest are rubbish. How is that even possible ?
Not Paul’s finest work, though I tend to agree with the modern re-assessments that this album was under-appreciated when it released. The scattered, unfinished nature of the album reflects Paul’s own scattered frame of mind as his life’s work disintegrated around him… or he was too lazy and/or stoned to finish the songs and accidentally created lo-fi as a genre. Either way, it’s got Maybe I’m Amazed on it. Best song: Maybe I’m Amazed
...
This album has two of Paul's best songs, but much like the guy trying Kobe the cherries into the bowl on the album cover, this missed the mark for me.
meh
What I expected from ex Beatle
Mellow, chill and more folk then the Beatles. But he knows how to make catchy music that sticks with you (that is what is success). Much more pop and simple then some of his counterparts but more folky then the group.
It was cool to hear Paul’s first solo album and learn the story behind it. I’m sure it was a wild time with the Beatles breaking up. It felt a bit disjointed but it was pretty decent for being so lo-fi.
Flojo para ser sir Paul. Eso sí tiene una canción maravillosa maybe.....
Well, at least Maybe I'm Amazed is a pretty good song. Otherwise, this album is pretty unexceptional. However, he would go on to do much cooler things with Wings, so we can forgive the fact that I don't love this album 3/5
Apart from Maybe I'm Amazed, no real standout songs, but the album on the whole works out well.
What a cool little find. Paul is a musical genius, so even this 'lofi' effort is great. There is nothing brilliant but it is mostly a lot of fun.
McCartney is experimenting with American sounds, American music. It doesn't get me. It's still McCartney. Immensly talented singer and songwriter. It's also an important album in the history of music since it was solo debut of McCartney after the breakup of The Beatles. Still expected more.
Pleasant but not my favourite. I like Every night quite a lot, the rest is okay. 3.5
decent, highlight is the obvious Maybe I'm amazed. The others are standard Beatles filler fare
There’s a few great songs on here but overall it was just a decent album for me. 3.5
The ballads are ace, the rest is mehhh.
This was okay, but not really my thing.
I think of John, himself and George I definitely like his post Beatles music the least, even if he was the most successful
There are some very lovely sounds in here. I may have had my expectations too high going in on account of Paul McCartney’s stature, but I have to admit that I was a little disappointed with this one. It was like eating a sundae that had good but not great ice cream, but then just some basic fudge and a couple of obligatory nuts. I need sprinkles and cherries to be impressed.
Some amazing songs on here and some of McCartney's best but there's also a lot of filler on here that lets it down.
mccartney
My first thought of McCartney was that it was slightly unrefined, especially when compared to his music just a few years later. Upon learning the unrefined aspect was purposeful and Paul McCartney created this album from start to finish by himself, this album began making a lot more sense. A lot of the album does sound similar to some Beatles songs, which isn't a bad thing--he was one fourth of the band and a prominent songwriter! Because of his songwriter status, I found myself more drawn to the instrumental "Singalong Junk," which I believe showed McCartney's instrument prowess. Not a bad album, but I recognize that McCartney had a lot of growing musically yet to come and that's what makes this album sound unfinished. I definitely enjoyed hearing an early solo album that isn't as well known today as something like Band on the Run.
This album marks McCartney's first album as a solo/non-Beatles artist, so there's certainly a bit of history attached to this. While McCartney would become (arguably) the most famous Beatle from a non-Beatles career perspective, his first post-Beatles album was definitely not the strongest of the first post-Beatles albums (if you must know, it's George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass", and I won't be explaining myself at this time). This album may seem a little bit too simple or even unfinished, but it's a bit more impressive when you consider that Paul did ALL of the instrumentation himself. And while the album may be lacking, it has one of McCartney's most famous and heralded solo songs: Maybe I'm Amazed. This song deserves its accolades, but most of the album does not match this song's caliber. Another thing to consider is that this album is essentially the first indie rock album, as the lo-fi, "homemade" qualities are what the album is most known for and what indie artists would go on to chase. Paul would definitely go on to do much better things with his post-Beatles career, but if nothing else, this album demonstrated that he had plenty of ideas coming out the gate.
Ladies and gentlemen...the Beatle! This record is proof enough that Paul would need a little polishing to find his own sound outside of the Fab Four. Given that this record was released right after Abbey Road, I can't help but compare the two albums. Because on one hand this feels like some throw away collection of jam tracks during the Let It Be recordings, but on the other, there's not a lot of personality coming through on most of these tracks. But it's still Paul, and it's still legendary, if only for the way it was recorded (at home with shitty equipment) that would go on to inspire millions of bedroom rockers. Also I guess Maybe I'm Amazed is okay.
Very Beatles/ Paul McCartney
Maybe I'm Amazed accounts for 1 of the stars.
I don’t dislike this album, but I think the common criticism is fair - it feels like a bunch of half-baked ideas.
Can Paul McCartney make bad music? Remains to be seen. This album isn't bad at all, but there's not much from it that sticks out to me. I appreciate that he sounds a lot different than I'm used to hearing, but it's nowhere near as impressive or interesting as Band on the Run. That said, "Maybe I'm Amazed" is a classic rock staple. I wouldn't be surprised if there's another, better McCartney solo album out there. I'm just losing trust in this listmaker. Favorite tracks: That Would Be Something, Momma Miss America, Maybe I'm Amazed. Album art: Really cool art here, undeniably so. Looks like a bowl of cherries has been ransacked and spread over a marble counter strip, but behind that is just a black void. It's very striking contrast. How many times must I note that I love red/white/black combos? This one's got some color too it, not true white, but the effect is real. 3/5
This was fine, but nothing impressed me
One man's Junk is another man's... good song.
With this being Paul McCartney's solo debut album after being in the biggest band of all time, obviously expectations were astronomical. While there are glimpses here of McCartney's greatness, with the entire 13-track record clocking under 35 minutes, it doesn't provide much depth ultimately. Also, half of the songs on the album being instrumentals is not something I anticipated. With McCartney's strengths lying in his lyrics and songwriting, it was a bit of a disservice to me to have this ratio of songs with no words at all. With a lot to live up to, I believe Sir Paul falls a little flat in this initial solo venture. There are a few highlights, but this is far from the most memorable project he's been apart of. Notable Tracks: Valentine Day - first of a few cool instrumentals Every Night Oo You Maybe I'm Amazed - never heard the original version before, but it stacks up to the more famous live version
Nothing really special. Didn’t blow my socks off like wings. 3/5
This wasn’t worth breaking up the Beatles over, kinda mid:(
I haven't listened to this before. Very McCartney.
3 - It's okay, really. Some good songs, but not enough for a higher rating. I could see this getting a higher rating in the future from me, if the deep cuts that slightly piqued my interest end up growing on me, but only time will tell.
An etherial, chill album that's half instrumental, half sung. Less like an album & more like a chill jam sesh, however it works due to the album's length, being only 35 minutes, keeping the listener from getting tired of some of the more repetitive natures of the album. 'Hot As Sun/Glasses' is the standout instrumental, with the final section of the song sounding about 30 years ahead of its time. 'Junk' contains a hauntingly beautiful melody & 'Teddy Boy' showcases the best storytelling present in the album. Overall, while not a particularly strong album, the length and varied tones of the songs keeps it from being a bore.
It was fine as background noise. Did not love it, but did not hate it. Overall, not bad.
More of an archive than an album. “Maybe I’m Amazed” is the gem that resulted from this creative isolation post Beatles. Overall there’s a few glimmering moments among many incomplete ideas. But that’s the point I suppose. Throughout the album I can hear Paul trying to figure out how he can go on without the Beatles, I guess it’s like finding a sketch book of a famous artist. Most songs don’t feel complete but given the context and the timing it’s ok. It’s interesting to listen to knowing all that now but I would’ve been pretty disappointed if I spent money on this with high expectations back in 1970. I’ve always loved the album cover though.
I'm a huge Beatles fan; I can't overstate this. When I find something sacred like that, I slow down and take things very slowly; instead of buying everything I can, I get an album and give it a listen for a year or more to reel in the amount of inspiration I feel before picking up the next one, knowing there's a finite amount of material. In the solo realms, I first went to George Harrison since he seemed like he had a lot more to say than what he was allowed previously. Then I went to the true genius of John, who is still my favorite. Paul had so much material that I didn't know where to start, but I started listening to some Wings and solo stuff here and there, but never played a full album. And so here I am, happy to devote a little time to McCartney, which I'm finding is his first release of material post-Beatles. "Every Night" is the first actual song here, a bit reminiscent of "You Never Give Me Your Money." The first song I recognize is "Junk," which was presented to the Beatles during the White Album demo sessions at George's new house, and this actualized version is perfect, with the right lyrics, great jazzy chord sequence, simple arrangement, and falsetto notes. George Martin said it first, and I must agree: no one can sing like Paul. He can hit a note in most any range and sound clear as a bell or invent death metal (i.e., "Helter Skelter"). I knew "Teddy Boy" from Anthology 3 and the Let It Be sessions. I can see why the Beatles passed on this one. Of course, "Maybe I'm Amazed" is the big single here, and it's beautiful. "Baby, I'm amazed at the way you pulled me out of time." What a touching sentiment. Like McCartney II and III, Paul plays all of the instruments on this album. I knew he could do noise-rock lead guitar like his solo on "Taxman" but I find his more tonal bluesy lead playing surprisingly impressive. The other tracks from McCartney feel a bit like the Abbey Road medley, a collection of song ideas or jams that never quite took their own form and just thrown together. In a way, this a grandiose demo tape of what Paul would sound like without his better half. In that way, with so much public baggage behind him and so much expectation of what he'll do next, this is a pretty daring first foray, but its subversion of expectation freed up his future, allowing him to do whatever he wanted next. Play it again. . . . and what's next, Paul?
This sounded like you'd expect, the logical next step coming off of the Beatles' last work. I liked the instrumental songs, just the Idea of having some rock instrumentals interspersed there. Paul's lyrics as often as not seem kind of "filler" not having much to really say, like they really are secondary to the music. Of course there are a few silly love songs, his specialty. I love how much he loved Linda, fitting that the opener was one about her. I was surprised to read about what was happening when this was created. John had already unofficially left, so Paul used that time to make this. I think this was Paul realizing he didn't want to stop making music and him trying to figure out how to move forward on his own.
This is a relaxed stripped down sounding album. Reading some of the bio on it, it's interesting that he recorded it secretly. I am more of an early to mid era Beatles fan rather than the latter stuff like Let It Be or Abby Road, which is what this McCartney album sort of sounds like. I think somehow it went well with my sleep deprived state today. Parts of the album sound like movie scenes from a sleepy town. Some of it sounds like demos or just unfinished ideas for songs but it still worked. Paul always has such a muted/muffled bass sound compared to more out front bass players like Les Claypool or Flea. I think my favorite was 'Every Night'. It's also interesting to see what Paul is like by himself without John, George and Ringo.
The best songs were basically unused Beatles songs
After a few not so great albums in a row, it was nice to get some good music, and from a Beatle nonetheless! I was thinking this was a no-doubt four, but then Kreen-Akrore came on and the doubts came in. There’s a timeless classic in Maybe I’m Amazed and another personal favorite in Every Night, but I don’t think that’s enough to solidify that four rating. And I gotta say, it is really impressive that McCartney recorded it all himself.
Has its moments
Classic
3 ok album but Paul should do better
A couple of years ago, I did a complete listen of the entire Beatles solo material. I started with Ringo’s first album, “The Sentimental Journey,” and worked my way through the entire solo catalogue in chronological release order, alternating between different Beatles as they released their albums. This album was the second one I listened to. Below is what I wrote at the time: “It's good. Some of the songs are too short/feel unfinished. For an album Paul was desperate to release on time, it really feels like he could've put a little more time into it. "Maybe I'm Amazed" is clearly the standout track and I don't think anybody would say otherwise. The fact that he and Linda recorded this album themselves is very impressive, but overall it just mostly falls kinda flat. It mostly doesn't carry that McCartney "Granny music" feel here much, which is nice as that's what I expected. It isn't too cutesy, or obnoxious or anything. It's just ok. It feels like a lot of songs that wouldn't have made it on a Beatles album as they were and also "Maybe I'm Amazed." Looking forward to hearing what "Ram" is like, and hoping it sounds more complete and interesting. This whole thing feels more like a thought experiment - "Can I make a good album all on my own?" The answer was "almost."” I rather like what I wrote and I’ll stand by it here. I’ve heard Beatles and McCartney fans fawn over “Junk” but I do not get it. Sure the chord progression and melody are interesting but that’s where it ends for me. This is one of Paul’s worst good albums and I am surprised it’s on here. But the author of the book clearly had an affinity for debut albums of English musicians. Overall this is fine and I liked it a little more than before but not much. Two and a half stars, rounded to 3 because Paul. Standout tracks: That Would be Something, Oo You, Mamma Miss America, Maybe I’m Amazed
Pure and honest. Couldn't listen to the whole album too often, but there's a genuineness that you didn't find from the Beatles stuff.
5.5/10
Sounds mostly like outtakes with the exception of two very good songs. Maybe I’m Amazed and Junk
He ain't much without Lennon. Poor lad.
i miss the beatles
As a big Beatles fan, I enjoyed this less than I thought I would. Some of the songs felt half made, like just two lines repeated a bunch. Cool to hear Paul's voice on songs I didn't know though
Love Linda’s husband This was lovely for a sunny day 3.8 Favs Man we was lonely Every night Hot as sun/ glasses Maybe I’m amazed
This album really goes to show how well The Beatles work as a team. Paul is often thought of as THE Beatle, the mastermind behind the majority of their music. But even with that, when he makes an album away from the other 3, it's just kinda meh. This is perfectly listenable, but it's nothing compared to some of the best albums in The Beatles' discography. But it's one that I can definitely see growing on me.
It would be pretty unsuprisng to say this was quite beatles esque. It was not amazing but not awful either I liked most of the songs but none of them particularly stood out to me
Pop-rock de McCartney. Ni fu ni fa.
Not really a fan but it was OK I think.
A collection of sweet minimalist pop and jam tunes, a stark contrast to McCartney's previous lushful work with the Beatles. Half the tracks feel like McCartney fooling around and jamming. Hardly anything impressive and sometimes boring in those, but it's nevertheless relaxing and carries that signature Beatles pop style with plenty of innovation. It's also pretty inconsistent, with all sorts of styles dispersed without much tying them together. Songs feel randomly placed, as if separate ideas turned into songs that were just mashed together into a release. Especially that 2nd side. "Kreen-Akrore" was the worst choice to close the record. But with how much of an outlier it is, it would have been better just to cut it out. There are, however, several standout tracks. "Every Night" and "Junk" are simple yet beautiful, and it's a shame not all the tracks are like that.
Ok but not the amazing hit after hit album I was expecting. Shouldn’t be on this list.
Better than expected
Everyone knows that mccartney is good
Interesting album 3/5
A lot of incomplete ideas. Some gems
Eh, not for me.
Unfortunately forgettable. McCartney is the best composer of the Beatles without much competition but he's also the least interesting. He's not a wacked out spiritualist like Harrison, and wild peace promoting hypocrite like Lenon or flamboyant like Ringo. The music on this first solo effort is very well done but doesn't really bring anything novel or exceptional to the table. All around a lukewarm effort even though McCartney remains my favorite Beatle.
What about RAM? Is RAM on the list? A mere week after the Beatles disbanded, Paul McCartney releases his debut solo album. This is an incredibly gentle album, which perhaps comes from a desire to strip down his songs such they don't require a full band arrangement. Makes sense! The result is some mostly folksy pop songs that aren't too notable. I get the sense that this first solo album is a warmup for McCartney, flexing his songwriting for his own artistic vision and no one else while also finding a tone he's comfortable with. Nothing wrong with that, but also not much to get excited about. He even has two "junk" songs which goes to show you how he feels about his own songs. Despite this, most of this album is a pretty pleasant listen. Not remarkable, but pleasant. That's gotta be worth something.
It was alright. Paul's first solo album. A bit odd at points. Some well known songs. It was relatively short.
This is a fun solo album but in the pantheon of post-Beatles solo work it’s somewhere in the middle. This, mostly instrumental album is beautifully played and produced. McCartney sounds fine and you can feel the fun he had making it.
Was ready to give this album a skip after a few songs, but things really started to pick up from Junk onwards. It's very rough and I don't think I'd listen to anything on this album again, but I'm glad to have heard it.
It was a solid ok album.
Okay
Interesting
Nothing here is really that great, but theninstrumental track I do like.
It's fine. Favorite songs: - Momma Miss America - Maybe I'm Amazed
A bit of Beatles, I really enjoyed the instrumentals on the album. Some of the songs hinted at other Beatle songs before turning into something different. Very nice listening album.
Better than I expected. I guess he was a better Beatle than John. But.. I’m rating this a few days after listening and I actually don’t remember that much from the album, so not that memorable or not worth remembering? A quick re-listen tells me: worth remembering but not that memorable.
McCartney's solo career has always reflected what a quaint songwriter he is – there are truly some odd little tracks in his discography, and while not all of them work the whole run has been remarkably solid. This first solo LP embodies that spirit, containing an eclectic mix of short ideas, interludes, instrumentals, and anthems that feel like a post-Beatles release of energy. The album could stand to gain some more connective tissue seeing as it feels so piecemeal, but each track has enough ideas or charm to gloss things over slightly and make this a decent listen.
Not his best solo stuff but still pretty good
Love that guy — his solo career (outside of Wings & "Ram") is rather weak.
The rest of the album is so mediocre, it makes Maybe I’m Amazed feel like the greatest song ever
Maybe I’m amazed is a classic, I enjoy a lot of the other songs on this one too :)
Not bad by any stretch but nothing special to me
Love Every Night. Such a nicely structured song with very clean vocals and beautiful acoustic instrumentation. Love the jangle of the acoustic guitar popping in and out of focus. Man We Was Lonely is an unexpectedly southern-drawly plonk of a tune. I really dig it and the spaced out guitar melody that he employs. Interesting mix on Oo You that separates the bass entirely into the right can, with the guitar almost isolated to the left. It makes me feel a little off balance TBH, but it is really interesting. You can hear both parts so clearly and separately. Momma Miss America taps a vein that I love. Really crass mix on the drums, but it grooves so hard with the bass line. Love the spacious, jammy keywork over top of it all. Standout track that feels like they were probably just jamming in the studio loosely. This was a disjointed listen for me, but mostly a pleasurable one. I've definitely heard Maybe I'm Amazed before, and it is a jam. Enjoyed the spaced out percussive mess that is Kreen-Akrore as a closer. This was an interesting listen and not at all what I had expected. Plenty of variety and feels like Paul really let his hair down. To me this is a high 3 leaning 4.
That was an album for sure. Nothing stood out really except the piano was pretty good. Kreen-Akrore was an unexpected but cool way to end it.
Ah the debut of McCartney. Reading about this album he definitely seemed like an asshole but was also going through some depression it seems. This album has so much potential but seems like Paul just wanted to get it out before any other Beatles solo albums. Pretty gay to have your first song that after the whole ordeal but whatever. Every Night is a jam and Parcels has an awesome cover of it. A lot of nice instrumental jams on this one but again seems a bit rushed. That is until Maybe I'm Amazed which is one of the greatest love songs of all time. I put it on so many of my playlists cuz it scratches so many itches.
Paul was just jamming on this one, and I respect that. Sounded like a bunch of demos rather than an album though.
Good for Paul that he was able to get his ideas out with this one. Definitely good stuff on here, but his next one is where he really got cooking
Very talented to play pretty much all instruments. Lots of catchy pop, but only a few full songs, which are good and one incredibly excellent and timeless hit song. Band on the run is the McCartney album to choose, but this isn’t all awful.
I feel like I expected a lot more from this album than what I really got. I didn’t enjoy it as much as I expected to. I think it was completely average honestly, but could’ve been more.
Classic Paul. Nothing ground breaking but good to listen to!
Nothing too special except for: Junk Maybe I’m Amazed
It’s funny to describe this album as Beatles-esque, but it totally is. The songs are shorter than I expected and there’s a few instrumental songs too. McCartney is plenty talented and it shows. Enjoyed my time with this one.
Favorite Tracks: Maybe I’m Amazed That Would Be Something Man We Was Lonely
Good as you'd expect but not great considering some of his output. 3*
Very safe solo debut. Just some mostly stripped back songs with basic but interesting stories, until Maybe Im Amazed comes on and blows everything else out of the water
The first indie lo-fi album! First time I heard it Maybe I'm Amazed was the only song that made any sense to me. I could only relate it to the Beatles, and the rest didn't. Listening to it now brings a different perspective. There are still some songs a producer might have told to scrap, but there are a few gems on this for me (That Would Be Something, Every Night, Teddy Boy). 3.5/5, so I'll round down.
First I’ve listened to this one and the lack of Beatles magic is apparent. Even Maybe I’m Amazed has always felt lacking to me but the record is still solid
I’d give this a 3.5, not his best solo work but still some compelling songs none the less.
Liked it better for not having a lot of typical McCartney pop singles.
Pleasant, albeit generic beats. Better than the Wiki description had me expecting.
Just Paul and that's just fine. Nothing earth shattering. I did love when he sang about Linda even if it wasn't a fantastic song. Of course Maybe I'm Amazed was great.
It's OK.
Man that album flies man. McCartney is great, but there isn't a lot here that I am racing to go hear again and again, except Maybe I'm Amazed. That is the most Beatles-like of the tunes. Still a decent listen. Just not more than a 3 for me.
Everybody knows that Paul’s best work happened after the Beatles. This album feels like an important stepping stone to Wings (“the band the Beatles could’ve been”), but it feels like a lot of loose ideas without all that much substance. I breezed through this album without really being grabbed by any of it. I do like the cover art. Fave Tracks: Maybe I’m Amazed 2.6/5
No classics but a reasonably pleasant listen
You know for how coded in to my musical DNA The Beatles are, I have never listened to this album fully and only really knew a couple tracks. I know this is debut solo album for Paul and get the approach he took to it and why, but it doesn't really hit the way I was hoping. Ram is a great album, and Band on the Run is a great album. I prefer McCartney II over than this album as well. It just doesn't do it for me.
Very chill album by one of my top 3 Beatles. Listenable but also pretending to be other better (Blcker?) artists across like 15 genres.
His odd Elvis impersonation and a few instrumental tracks drag this down.
особо не отложилось (хотя как всегда знакомые синглы кажутся великолепными - мейби айм эмейзд)
Ok
Silly.
Not as bad as I thought it would be.
Ram should be here instead, 100%. I don't hate it; in fact, I quite respect the DIY, lo-fi aspect he had going on here. But the results really come out quite mixed, and in some places seemingly unfinished in a dull way to my ears.
Good album, but he would come up with much better material in his solo career in the future.
I mean, it wasn’t The Beatles 3/5
some cool stuff here and there but overall very okay. low 3
Maybe I'm amazed takes this from almost a 2 to almost a 4.
Han kan sgu godt finde ud af at skrive sange ham Paul
How many drum solos is too many drum solos? Alternative title: "Paul McCartney Isn't Sure What to Do With Himself Now"
I actually own a nice 2011 release of this that comes with a book. It’s not a masterpiece. There’s some noodling around. However is light and enjoyable. And Maybe I’m Amazed is great.
proto 90s indie rock. 3.5 really. Repeated listens are rewarded. GBV and early Sebadoh fans will find common ground.
Didn't hate this, and it didn't feel like it went on forever.
I'm quite the cynic of this part of the Beatles Empire but this album is quite OK actually
Paul’s done a decent job w this but just is a little meh
More folky than I expected it to be. Baby I’m amazed is a classic, hadn’t heard any of the others before. Similar writing structure to a lot of his Beatles songs
Not his best, written on Beatles' breakup
Gear: Focal Clear Mix: beeindruckender Stereo-Mix und Gewicht jedes einzelnen Instruments - dabei trotzdem doch eher am rauen Lo-Fi-Ende produziert Musik: beginnt mit "La La La La" und wird nicht wirklich gehaltvoller (mit Ausnahme von "Maybe I'm Amazed") Wertung: 🫐🫐(🫐)/5
Probably his 4th best solo album.
Endearing. Some great songs but I will honestly ask would this album be here if he wasn't a Beatle. Not a bad album just not essential
No tämä oli ihan jees!
Always interesting to hear something from Paul but this one feels half-baked and underwhelming, like studio outtakes or something. Still, lots of catchy tunes and of course Maybe I'm Amazed.
B The Lovely Linda 3 That Would Be Something 3 Valentine Day 3 Every Night 4 Hot as Sun/Glasses 3 Junk 5 Man We Was Lonely 4 Oo You 3 Momma Miss America 3 Teddy Boy 3 Singalong Junk 4 Maybe I'm Amazed 4 Kreen-Akrore 4 I'm a Paul loyalist, but even I have to admit he's not better solo. However, the problem here, ironically, is that he is not far enough removed from The Beatles. Since he made this while they were practically still together, he hadn't quite found that solo Paul vibe yet.
alright ok
Thank you to the spies who noted a friend mentioned this album to me on WhatsApp the day before I was given this. Nice bit of joined up spying. As for the album itself, I enjoyed.
3. They're not great but they're not bad
I appreciate his punk rock approach to a lot of the tunes on this album. Short, sweet and to the point. His grasp of song writing and musical craftmanship is documented but there were still moments that surprised me. Though not quite my style a good listen. Foravorite tracks include "valentine day" and "momma miss America" (3.5/5.)
3.5/5. Pretty good, but nothing that blows me away. It was pretty easy listening, and I would not mind listening to this again.
I was expecting more from this album. I recently had Lennon’s Plastic Ono Band album, which was filled with soulful singing. Other than Maybe, I’m Amazed, this album didn’t connect with me. 3/5.
Kind of cool that he was trying something new and a little experimental, but I didn’t find this too compelling. Maybe I’m Amazed was the only song that got my attention.
As a massive Beatles fan, I'm disappointed by how just "okay" this album is. It's certainly not bad, but as the first of the actual solo Beatles albums (I think?) this leaves a lot to be desired. Maybe I'm Amazed is certainly a fantastic ballad that matches with McCartney's output in the late Beatles era, but the rest of the album feels like ideas that don't come to fruition. I mean, having both "Junk" and "Singalong Junk" just to fill an already small runtime reeks of too many idea with hardly any fleshed out. It really is just okay, nothing more, nothing else. So, I'll ask, where's Ram? How did this get here over Ram, which is not only the best McCartney album (Wings or otherwise) but arguably the best solo Beatles project, although All Things Must Pass comes close? Ut seriously baffles me. I feel like the author just didn't want to include more McCartney albums than Lennon, but this album didn't need to be here, that one did. If you're reading this, listen to Ram. Perhaps the low production values led this album to be one of the first "indie" (I use that term loosely here) albums of all time, but then why aren't artists like the Shaggs here for also inspiring artists without being something actually of high quality themselves? And once again, WHY ISN'T RAM HERE?!
Nowt special
empieza aburrido y repetitivo, las letras nada va mejorando aunque la última es infumable
Better than I thought it was gonna be
Helt finno, men ikke fordi noget lige sprang mig i øjnene.
Not really what you would expect from McCartney. Decent, but probably not something you'd want to listen to very often
Maybe I'm Amazed is an all time great. Unfortunately, the rest of the album seems like a Beatle that is experimenting but doesn't have other enough confrontation or guidance to deliver consistent greatness. It is interesting, quirky and experimental at times... but Maybe I'm Amazed is the only track that is great. Still interesting.
bit boring
McCartney leaning into solo after the Beatles.
The man has an entire album of half baked ideas and then finishes with one of his all timers.
It was pretty good! First run through wasn’t overly keen. Second I noticed a couple of bangers
If it wasn't McCartney then this album was have been lost to time.
I... expected more from someone who penned (or helped pen) some of the most iconic songs in the history of pop music. This was frankly boring AF. Very little of this album stood up and demanded attention. It was... fine. I guess. But it should have been great. This is McCartney after all.
Despite him only being my second favorite Beatle, I've always enjoyed Paul's bass playing and much of his songwriting too. There are some solid tracks here but a few that are marred by way-too-goofy lyrics.
FIJN! Weer een Beatle die ons solo gaat laten horen dat hij eigenlijk al die tijd het genie achter de band was. Doodeng lachje van Ome Paul aan het einde van The Lovely Linda zeg... Wel lekker kort nummertje. Dat dan weer wel. Ik vind het allemaal maar een beetje saai. Denk dat het heel erg komt doordat dit dan ook een stokoud album is, maar jeetje, het is niet bijster spannend allemaal. Vind tot nu toe Singalong Junk het fijnste nummer, lekker instrumentaal en rustig. Ik ben gewoon niet zo weg van Paul zn stem als ik heel eerlijk ben. Nummers lopen heeeeel erg in elkaar over. Maakt het prima weg te luisteren maar niet zo dat er iets echt uitspringt. Beetje jammer, beetje meh FAVO: Singalong Junk
Paul McCartney Oke Paultje, beetje hummen en beatboxen en scatten enzo, helemaal los hier. Gevolgd door heerlijke instrumentaaltje met een zingend gitaartje, goed begin hoor. Ik mis wel een beetje power in z'n stem, daardoor lijkt hij gedwongen om z'n nummers ook allemaal zacht te houden Misschien kiest hij er gewoon voor om hier z'n gevoelige kant te laten zien, wie zal het zeggen? Hot As Sun/Glasses had ook van BZN kunnen zijn, als ik het intro zo hoor zeg, niet best. Ik vind de instrumentale nummers eigenlijk had beste, opmerkelijk genoeg. Al met al is het het net niet Favorieten: That Would Be Something, Valentine Day, Momma Miss America
I rarely devote any time to solo efforts. I've just never connected to a solo project even 1/2 as much as the nexus band. This however IS listenable. Great bluesy melodies grittier than Beatles of the time.
Paar goede nummers, verder wel erg rommelig
Besides the great single it just exists
C'est sympathique mais je crois que le bonhomme a déjà eu assez d'albums dans la liste.
Les Beatles, non contents d'être surcôtés avec une ribambelle d'albums simplement sympas qui récoltent des notes absolument aberrantes, viennent nous casser les couilles avec de multipiles albums solo de leurs protagonistes. Il y en a assez.
My first time listening to this album and Singalong Junk stands out as an easy listening track that wouldn't go amiss in an early 1990's rom com film. Overall the album was well paced and accessible, but it left me wanting just that little bit more.
It's nice but slight. But then it feels like it's earned, contextually, knowing the Beatles history and watching 'Get Back', I'd want to make something quick and dirty too.
It's sloppy but its not bad. It does go through a bit of "here's 4 chords on repeat for two minutes, and here's another one" but it still averages out just as good as any of the one hit wonder albums which I think Macca is probably due.
3.7 - A cozy little record for this overcast Sunday morning that finds McCartney at his most relaxed. Besides the obvious “Maybe I’m Amazed” standout, I also like “Oo Yeah”, “Teddy Boy” and a couple others. Some instrumental fillers enhance the easygoing vibe.
Good, not great.
The first solo album from maybe one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century. This was a bit ahead of its time with the lo-fi harshly edited songs. Funny that people then didn’t care for it but yet so many artists have created a comparable sound. This is solid work by Paul as there are some catchy well written songs. 6.7/10
Interesting as a historical piece but I didn't love it.
I've never really love McCartney's voice and some of this album fell pretty flat for me. But there are some great songs. Really enjoyed Oo You and Momma Miss America
The only point of clarity on the album is “Sing-Along Junk,” because sing-along junk is right! Look, I love Ram. And I love the experimental spirit behind this album; the eschewing of polished and comprehensive recording practices and “business.” And, as a Beatles fan, I find the context of this album wonderfully fascinating—Paul depressed, in seclusion on his farm, tinkering and trying to figure out how to go on without the Beatles. But this is just too much tinkering. It’s entirely evident Paul has not figured out how to go on yet. Though you can hear hints of where his solo career would take him, and with great success, in the decade to follow. Probably though, he could have just shelved everything on this album and released “Maybe I’m Amazed” as a single. On the other hand, I’m glad he didn’t. I’m glad he let’s us into his process and state of mind with this first solo release. It’s an amazing piece of history. Truly remarkable Paul recorded the entirety of “Maybe I’m Amazed” himself. I mean that’s astounding. And there’s a bittersweet beauty in its rough-around-the-edges tone. A tone all the more powerful when attributed to this song. This song that every record executive in the country must have been pulling their hair out, pleading with Paul to give it the single treatment, the Phil Spector treatment, etc. It’s almost bitter sweet because, when I listen to it, I’m just waiting for John’s parts. It holds the heart of the album. Paul holed up. Trying to make music for the first time in his life alone. And doing it *completely* alone. But still very much making music that could have been Beatles music. Like this could have been on Let It Be and been right at home. John, George, Ringo, George Martin all would have contributed something unique to it, no doubt. But what we have is no less amazing. Perhaps even more amazing because it holds all that heartbreak and history. Everything else on this album is just nonsense. And I have sympathy for the nonsense but the nonsense gets much better on Ram and really just isn’t very good here. So ya. 3/5 with one full star given for “Maybe.”
What a fascinating listen! To be Paul McCartney in 1970… I do not envy him. His band is breaking up, and he’s the one who’s been trying hardest to keep it together. And here he is, cranking out music. No studio, no fancy tricks, no producer… just him and a tape recorder. And it’s… a funny listen! I find myself in awe of his songwriting, when the faucet is turned on. It’s just that it’s so stubbornly *off* for most of the album! It’s experimental, instrumental, certainly *interesting* that Paul has half of his songs meandering, a little basic, almost demos of the ideas. Even the songs feel half fleshed out… a far way to drop from Abbey Road, or Let It Be, just a year prior. This is someone who sounds like he’s figuring himself out… which is just plain weird, since the last 5 years of his discography make the self-evident case for a songwriter who had it *all* figured out. I’m glad he got back on his footing with Ram and McCartney II, but here he just sounds lost. There’s very little reason for anything that goes on, and ideas simmer into focus and then lose the plot. I was close to a 2, but as a McCartney fan, I have to acknowledge the few great moments. They’re just so few and far between. Glad that he eventually made it out of the morass. 3/5
rien d'accrochant. je ne comprends pas la catégorisation LoFi 5.5/10
5/10. This album would never have made this list had it not been made by Paul McCartney. Charming enough, though.
7/10 Paul was all over the place on this album. It misses a direction path, but the songs on here are good and promising of an interesting solo career.
Some classics. Life beyond the Beatles.
While it can be extremely interesting to hear, at the end of the day, it's an immediately-post-Beatles McCartney kind of aimlessly fucking around. Of course, he'd strike absolute gold on "Maybe I'm Amazed", but taken as a whole, the project feels just as aimless as McCartney must have. Favorite tracks: "Maybe I'm Amazed", "Every Night", "Momma Miss America"
3.5
It's alright. Like most things with the Beatles, the worth is inflated because of the name attached to it, not because of the merit of the product.
Written while Macca was depressed from the Beatles break up. IT IS mostly collection of underworked so-so songs with the massive exception of Maybe I'm Amazed. (Which is awesome though there are better versions)
Pop-rock de McCartney. Ni fu ni fa.
Vaguely pleasant but if didn’t have many actual songs
I like the sound tones and lo-fi production, i just wish the songs were more fleshed out. The first solo Beatle album is probably something worth listening to, but it’s not a great album.
A couple of standout tracks esp. 'Maybe I'm Amazed', but not a patch on what had gone before, or indeed what came after in the mid 1970s
Sounds a bit like demo recordings of rejected Beatles songs, aside from 'Maybe I'm Amazed' (which I honestly thought was a Beatles song until I listened to this) Its not a bad album, it'd make for good background music while relaxing in the sun. Solid songwriting. I've always much prefered George Harrison's solo catalogue though, it has more depth that McCartney's lacks.
Pop característico del Beatle, con un estilo tranquilo y sosegado. Alguna canción con algún tipo de innovación en cuanto al tipo de instrumento, pero en general, bastante común todo
ehh I mean it’s fine
A song that prominently featured heavy breathing pulled this from a 4 to a 3
Faul records Maybe I’m Amazed and then some other tracks that maybe could’ve amazed had they strangely been collaborated on with 2-3 other people?
Look he's 1/4 of the Beatles so this album is at least 1/4 as good as a Beatles, which is pretty good. Is it essential? Probably not, but I do think it earns a spot on this list, and I was glad to listen to the whole thing.
Clearly, this album is a mix and match collection of half cooked ideas. Maybe I'm Amazed is obviously the most famous one, but my favourite is Momma Miss America. It's obvious this album carries a lot of weight with Beatles fans, and it's also obvious it reeks of sheer brilliance. Alas, there is no escaping its under cooked delivery.
Gah, creaky cheesy guff - baby I'm amazed is catchy - the rest of the album is chirpy chappy McCartney chatter. Just full of slightly worse versions of baby I'm amazed really.
An interesting listen. Not because of the music, but because of what it is. I'm ok with it being on this list. As for the music, from this distance it feels like a charming meander through a pretty art gallery highlighting some up and comers. A few things to really like, lots that is mostly fine, a few unfortunate missteps, and one genuine masterpiece towards the end. I actually enjoyed it more than I expected to, McCartney isn't usually my favorite. Maybe I'm Amazed bumps my rating from 2.5 to 3.
Slightly shambolic. Maybe I'm Amazed by far the best track